My Wishlist

A Place To Call My Own

A unique blend of contemporary and "old school" rock and roll, A Place To Call My Own blends West Coast rock with hot electric guitars, driving drums and thoughtful lyrics to make a great CD from top to bottom.

ABOUT THIS ALBUM

Album Notes

This is Taylor Harvey's second release of original songs and the songwriting reflects a strong maturity that demands to be taken seriously. The songs deal with love, life and death from the perspective of someone who's seen some of each and has come away with from it all with some smiles, some tears and some times worth writing about.

What makes this collection noteworthy is the addition of full-time players rather than studio musicians, hence The Taylor Harvey Band. It's clear to the ear that these songs were written for this band when you hear the agressive, driving beat of Jaron Lyon's drums coupled with Steve Campana's smooth bass laying the foundation for songs that have been compared to Tom Petty, Bob Dylan and REM. The top end is supplied by the intuitively melodic lead guitar work of Tim Edwards and Taylor's alternate use of electric and 12 string rhythm guitars.

The overall result is a CD that is not just listenable, but enjoyable, from top to bottom. Each song blends music and lyrics thoughtfully and completely, never leaving the listener feeling there should have been that "certain something" more. From the barrooms of San Diego to the concert halls of America, look for The Taylor Harvey Band to be making an appearance near you soon.

Taylor captures everything and more of what Tom Petty had going those first 10 or so years in this awesome CD. I watched this kid grow into the music man he has become. He's finally having a blast doing what he has always loved and it shows in this CD. You deserve to hear this.
Taylor, rock on brother. I wish I had your talent.
Gary

This disc, "A Place To Call My Own", is Taylor Harvey's sophomore effort, but the first with his new band. This CD, from the opening acoustic strains of the title track to the ending chords of "Audrey's Song", is simply non-stop, old-school rock-n-roll.

While Harvey handles all of the lead vocals like the pro that he is, guitarist Tim Edwards lends his backing-vocal ability to songs like "Roadhousin'", "Tease", and "Long Walk Home". Edwards also offers up tasteful, yet indispensible, lead tracks throughout the disc.

For those wanting a change of pace about four songs in, check out "One Of These Days". This is country music at its' finest, yet with a tint of rock surrounding it. A fun, foot-stomping song to make you want more of what's to come.

My favorite track on this disc is "G.I. Blue". This song is heavy on subtle acoustic guitar, but strong in its' simple message. "G.I. Blue" tells the story of a lifelong friend gone much too soon. In this day and age of military uncertainties around the world, this one brings the effects of world events home in a simple, yet overwhelming, tribute to a friend who came home one last time.

Now, the band as a whole...

It's clear that Tim Edwards is the consumate professional, never over-playing or understating his parts. His sense of what fits is uncanny, and he always slips comfortably into the groove of what's surrounding him musically.

Now, a lot of what surrounds Edwards is courtesy of drummer Jaron Lyons and bassist Steve Campana. Lyons and Campana are clearly on the same page, and provide a rock solid base on which to support the song. Harvey's own guitar playing prowess is evident all over this disc, as well. It's not something you necessarily notice, but that's because it's a perfect fit. Take it away, and the void would be enormouos.

Taylor Harvey is a guy who, initially, I thought I'd compare to Tom Petty and Jimmy Buffett. Then I thought, no, he's more like Jim Croce or Harry Chapin. Then it dawned oon me: he's like all of these guys, with maybe a little John Hiatt thrown in for good measure. He can write the whimsical "Nothing To Complain About Blues" in a style reminiscent of Buffett and, in the very next breath, pen something like "G.I. Blue", evoking memories I have of Harry Chapin.

Harvey, not unlike a chameleon, can change color to fit the mood he's in at any given time, in such a way that the change is absolutely seamless; completely natural. This is something that's just too rare these days, and it's refreshing to see it when it happens.

Now, rarely is something like this a one-man-show, or even a one-band-show. Producer Steve Langdon exhibits his formidable production chops while at the helm of this recording. It's clear that Langdon is a musician's producer. Frankly, I can't think of a higher compliment to give to someone who gets to sit behind a mixing board while the guys in the band get to have all the fun playing music.

The fact, though, is that Langdon (who's also a pretty good guitarist in his own right) knows exactly how to communicate with the musicians to get onto a recording that which they really want on the recording. This isn't a talent that's learned; you won't find it in bookos or by surfing the internet. It's a talent that's nurtured and realized only through experience.

All in all, I'm of the opinion that "A Place To Call My Own" should find its' way into the rotation of every home CD player. I know it found its' way into mine.

although the entire album is excellent, victim of the moment & GI blue really stand out to me. like taylor's previous release, this album quickly fits you like a well broken in pair of shoes. give it a spin.

All too seldom new music does not have that unigue and exciting sound that grabs me in a comfortable way. This CD resounds with new music that keeps getting better each time I listen to it. Great lyrics with insightful meaning and skilled musicians that fit together like a finely honed machine make this a truly Great CD. Looking forward to the next one! I like the name too.

Taylor has outdone himself, and this CD shows it. It's obvious that a comfort zone with his band has been found, which translates to a higher production quality and a more relaxed feel that shines through the music. If you didn't buy "No Loitering" then you absolutely must get "A Place To Call My Own".

This is a fine effort from The Taylor Harvey Band with ringing guitars and plaintive, effective vocals. Their savvy use of a varied list of influences make the album immediately appealing, while injecting those same influences with a fresh, invigorated spirit of adventure and kick ass rock & roll. It's a fun record and one you'll play more often than not. Pop in into the car CD - it makes for great motoring down the highway music.

This is the second of three THB CDs which I bought recently and it is again right on track for anyone that likes southern rock.Not a single song on the disc that needs to be skipped over unlike many CDs you might buy.Give this CD a try and you won't be sorry.